Opening Remarks: New retailers upping Calgary’s shopping scene

Whether it’s a new location for a familiar chain, or a new-to-town brand, bar or restaurant, Style.ca has the go-to short list. In this edition of Opening Remarks, we’ve taken the time to assemble a list of only the very best retail openings in Calgary over the last few months, so you’ll know exactly where to head for your next retail therapy session.

You’re welcome.

Canada Goose – Chinook Centre

In a city that can sometimes feel like frozen wasteland nearly eight months out of the year, a proper jacket is almost important as the cold air we need to breathe.

Made, manufactured, and sold out of the country we call home, the luxury brand is now an international demand; not limited to parkas, CG is also well known for vests, hats and knitwear. Their fashion forward, quality-above-all-else approach to outerwear is a Canadian symbol, and a wardrobe staple. This is the first Canada Goose flagship stores for Calgary, so it’s a pretty big deal.

NYX Professional Makeup – Chinook Centre

Everyday basics and on trend shades, this AFFORDABLE makeup line, is rich in pigment and in quality.

Opening its first location in Alberta, with a dupe for nearly every Kylie Cosmetic, a foundation match for nearly every complexion, and an eyeshadow in hundreds of colors, NYX Professional Makeup is a favorite, at both Style.ca and in the mass that is the mainstream beauty industry.

Hillberg and Berk – Market Mall

A purpose driven, Canadian brand, dedicated to empowering women. This bold, classic line of jewelry has been worn everywhere from the red carpet to Buckingham Palace. Michelle Obama, Celine Dion, and even the Queen (yes, THE Queen) have fallen in love with their unique pieces.

From humble Saskatchewan to being an internationally renowned powerhouse line, Hillberg and Berk strive to send a message of unity and strength, since 2007. This is H&B’s first flagship store in Alberta.

Sporting Life– Market Mall

Exclusive to the winter time warriors, and summer sport soldiers, this large stock, luxury retailer has everything you’ll need to stay hot or cool on your next ski-trip and behind the boat during August long. Carrying brands only ever sold at Holt Renfrew and Harry Rosen, this premium product supplier is another Home-based apparel and goods giant. Calgary is now host to two locations for this Canadian retailer, South Centre and most recently, Market Mall.

Henry Singer – Eight Ave. Place

Photo: Jamie Anholt

Bond, Astaire, Clooney. Nothing quite suits these men… like a suit.

When he opened the doors to his first store, Henry Singer, only had $300 dollars to his name. Now nearly 80 years later, his legacy lives on through three Alberta locations, and the hundreds of well-dressed men who leave the store, bag in hand.

Photo: Jamie Anholt

This new location marks a new era for the brand which has become Alberta’s premier menswear retailer with exceptional store environments, in addition to its e-commerce platform.

Kixs – Market Mall

Fashion is a creative outlet, and should be accessible to all. Since 2009, when this once, small Calgary sneaker boutique was founded, KIXS has supported local artists and fought for affordability. This authentically Albertan ‘do-good’ company doesn’t stop at the fashion-for-all movement, they’ve also partnered with local charities and shelters, and encourage guests who have bought from their store to bring back their unused clothing. Any clothing purchase within 28 months is eligible for 30% back in KIXS bucks, and are donated to organizations within 2 weeks of the receipt, as long as they’re still in good condition.

Mark’s Well Worn Pop-up Store – Market Mall

Since 1977, when it opened its first store in Calgary, Mark’s Work Warehouse has been a favorite among the industrious. Over 40 years, and after opening more than 360 stores nationally, Mark’s is expanding their brand yet again, this time, hoping to reach an even broader audience with their new concept Well Worn.

“For us Well Worn is really a positioning that celebrates hardworking Canadians who, like us, persevere with grit and determination.” – President of Mark’s Work Warehouse, PJ Czank.

Mark’s Well Worn will remain open until the end of May 2018, with two other locations across Canada: Halifax- Spring Garden Place and Toronto- Queen Street West.

Zara– Market Mall

Zara is a wonderland to the fashionista on a budget. Great quality, reasonable prices. Everything from the basics, to bedazzled aviator jackets with tassel hem. Over the 43 years since opening its first location in Spain, Zara has built up a reputation for being one of the trendiest apparel manufacturers worldwide, and holds a place in our hearts and our wardrobes.

Surprisingly enough, this is only the second Zara location in Calgary, and the largest.

South St. Berger– Market Mall

The way to your soul might not be through the clearance rack, we’re betting it IS through your stomach. Sometimes shopping is hard work, and after a long day of stealing deals and navigating busy mall crowds, you’re in need of a little nourishment. South St. Berger is truly a joint where no two burgers are really the same, with their endless combinations and experimental toppings. All beef is additive free, preservative free, is hormone free and also happens to be another Canadian company creating quite the buzz, which are all great reasons to check out this newly opened location, or any of the other three around Calgary.